As the winter season continues to sink in and when temperatures reach single digits or go below zero, it’s important to remember safety reminders as it pertains to your furry friends. 

Raccoon River Pet Rescue Board member Janelle Repp reminds everyone that some animals are better suited to being out in the cold than others with better-insulated pads on their paws among other factors like simply enjoying the cold. Pets can get frostbite to their paws if out in the cold for too long. 

“So it’s extremely important to monitor your pet. Be aware of the freezing temperatures you know think about how cold it would be if you were barefoot outside and how that would be on your feet and so some dogs just are equally not able to handle the cold temps especially when it dips below freezing.”

Also, Repp says to be careful when taking pets outside when there is ice melt as it can burn pets’ paws or make them sick if they ingest it after they lick their paws. 

Finally, Repp says to be aware of how long pets are outside, monitor your pets and what they might get into and if they are strictly outside pets to make sure they have fresh water, more food as they burn more calories, and properly insulated shelter to get away from the elements.